Evaluation of the antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activity of Lippia javanica against pathogenic microorganisms

The contamination of cosmetics and herbal products by pathogenic microorganisms presents a significant public health concern, especially in developing regions where quality control may be limited. This study aimed to evaluate the antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties of Lippia javanica, a medicinal plant traditionally used in Mozambique, against microbial contaminants commonly found in cosmetic products. Ethanolic extracts of L. javanica were tested for antimicrobial activity using agar well diffusion and broth microdilution methods against reference strains of Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Candida albicans. Minimum inhibitory concentrations (MICs) were determined to evaluate potency. For anti-inflammatory assessment, a COX-2 (cyclooxygenase-2) inhibition screening assay was conducted using a commercial ELISA-based method, which measures the reduction in PGF2α levels in the presence of test extracts.

The results revealed that L. javanica exhibits broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity, with strong inhibitory effects, particularly against S. aureus and E. coli, and MIC values ranging from 6.25 to 50 mg/mL. In the COX-2 inhibition assay, the extracts demonstrated dose-dependent suppression of COX-2 activity, indicating potential anti-inflammatory effects. The reduction in PGF2α production suggests the presence of bioactive compounds that may interfere with prostaglandin synthesis pathways.

These findings provide scientific support for the traditional use of L. javanica in treating infectious and inflammatory conditions. The results also highlight its potential as a source of natural antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory agents.